Despite the hype, Google Glass did not take off here on Earth but a similar smart glass technology could be an essential tool that could make things easier for astronauts working in space.
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has partnered with San Francisco-based Osterhout Design Group (ODG) to develop computerized glasses that can guide astronauts with experiments as well as in conducting flight operations and repairs on space.
Astronauts currently rely on printed instructions to guide them when fixing equipment in space. It is hoped that the glass would make things easier for them by getting the directions uploaded directly to the glasses so astronauts do not have to flip through pages during an emergency. The glass could also free up their hands allowing them to more efficiently accomplish their tasks.
NASA and ODG said in a press release that the smart glasses will be initially tested for assisted reality applications that would keep the users' hands and eyes focused on their tasks, which could help boost the efficiency of in-flight activities and ease out difficult tasks.
"As electronic directions and instructions replace paper checklists and longer duration missions are considered, there is a need for tools that can meet evolving demands," said NASA Johnson Space Center Engineering Director Lauri Hansen. "ODG's technology provides an opportunity to increase space mission efficiencies and we are pleased to explore its potential in human spaceflight while also advancing its use here on earth."
NASA's new business lead Sean Carter said that as an augmented reality tool, the ODG smart glasses will have display shown in 720 stereoscopic lenses that shows instruction manuals, check lists, video calls and digital markers that identify parts and control.
"Just put the glasses on and say 'Next step,' and you're looking through an instruction manual," Carter said. "It's beautiful; they are amazing."
The smart glasses will be tested later this year in an undersea lab that would simulate a space flight environment. The device will be eventually submitted to the flight program team of the U.S. space agency for its first trip to space.
NASA reportedly approached Google first for the possibility of using the search giant's Google Glass for what the agency had in mind, but Google told NASA's representatives that it was currently focusing on consumers. The Internet giant has discontinued sale of the product to consumers in January this year.
